Jeremiah 30:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 30:19
19 And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 30 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, wisdom, redemption. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 30:19
19 And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.
Analysis
Out of them shall proceed thanksgiving (וְיָצָא מֵהֶם תּוֹדָה, 've-yatsa mehem todah')—restoration produces worship. Thanksgiving (תּוֹדָה, 'todah') is the thank-offering that acknowledges God's deliverance. The voice of them that make merry (קוֹל מְשַׂחֲקִים, 'kol mesachakim', sound of laughing/celebrating) contrasts sharply with earlier laments.
I will multiply them (וְהִרְבִּיתִים, 've-hirbitim') echoes Abrahamic covenant promises (Gen 22:17). I will also glorify them (וְכִבַּדְתִּים, 've-khivadtim', make them heavy/weighty/honored) reverses their shame. This multiplication and glorification finds NT fulfillment in the church's exponential growth across all nations.
Historical Context
Post-exilic returns saw population growth from the remnant. But the prophecy's full weight describes the ingathering of nations into God's people through Christ (Isa 60:22, Acts 2).
Reflection
- Does thanksgiving characterize your response to God's restoration in your life?
- How has God turned your mourning into laughter and celebration?
- In what ways does the church's global growth fulfill this promise of multiplication?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 31:4, 33:22, Nehemiah 8:12, Isaiah 12:1, 35:10, 51:11